“To build a better world we need to replace the patchwork of lucky breaks and arbitrary advantages that today determine success–the fortunate birth date and the happy accidents of history–with a society that provides opportunities for all”

We also have to dismantle all the reasons it took “lucky breaks”, make sure groups aren’t purposefully disenfranchised by old laws and policies so that they have to rely on lucky breaks to succeed. Or worse yet, that they have to masquerade as something that they aren’t in order to succeed.

Great great post!

Interestingly enough, I’m conflicted about TED. On the one hand, I think that what the TED community is able to produce is truly inspiring and often amazing. It’s also a plus that anyone can visit TED online to watch/download videos of the conference sessions, etc. However, I wonder if TED is still a bit too exclusive. There is clearly more demand to attend in person than there is space available–despite what seems to be a steep admission cost (as well as criteria for acceptance).

Like I said, I really appreciate TED. My concern for it is aligned with Gladwell’s challenge to elevate common potential.

I think about my uncle who farms in Idaho and the concept of “spring wheat,” “summer wheat,” etc. The idea being about how to maximize crop yield year-round. A takeaway for me from Outliers is to apply similar practices to “increase the yield” of other ventures, whether civic, educational, social, professional, etc.

Here is Malcolm at the TED conference discussing his book.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIiAAhUeR6Y&e